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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs – Easy Comfort Food Recipe

crispy garlic parmesan chicken thighs - featured image

These crispy garlic Parmesan chicken thighs are the ultimate comfort food, featuring a crunchy, cheesy crust and tender, juicy meat. Ready in about 40 minutes, this simple yet spectacular recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 46 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
  • 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (about 3 ounces)
  • 45 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Position the rack in the upper third of the oven. Take the chicken thighs out of the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  3. Finely grate the Parmesan cheese using a microplane or the fine side of a box grater. Place the grated Parmesan in a shallow dish.
  4. Press the seasoned chicken thighs, skin-side down, into the grated Parmesan. Press firmly so the cheese sticks, then shake off any excess.
  5. Place the chicken thighs, skin-side up, on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet. If you don’t have a wire rack, place them directly on the baking sheet skin-side down for the first 15 minutes, then flip.
  6. Bake for 25 minutes without opening the oven door.
  7. While the chicken bakes, prepare the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, and minced fresh garlic. Stir until well combined.
  8. After 25 minutes, remove the chicken from the oven. Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over each thigh. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes.
  9. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part, away from the bone.
  10. For extra crispy skin, turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  11. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  12. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

Pat the chicken completely dry for the crispiest skin. Use freshly grated Parmesan, not pre-shredded, for the best texture. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy. For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter and nutritional yeast mixed with almond flour.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken thighs, garlic parmesan chicken, baked chicken thighs, comfort food, easy chicken recipe, gluten-free chicken, keto chicken